Collective Agreement Ratified for IUOE Local 882-B

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake and the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 882-B have ratified the terms of a new four-year Collective Agreement covering all unionized employees. The settlement provides for wage increases totaling 16.25% over the four years of the contract (5.75%, 4.5%, 3%, 3%). The City recognized that wage adjustments in the previous five-year agreement fell short compared to the actual rate of the consumer price index (CPI) by 6.71% and in good faith acknowledged that amount in the new agreement.

The collective bargaining process was completed in two days, although the teams from both parties prepared well in advance. Bargaining was successful, resulting in a member vote for ratification. The changes made to the agreement are fair and reasonable for both the Employer and Union. The new agreement will start on July 1, 2024 and expire June 30, 2028.

“It gave IUOE Local 882 a tremendous amount of pride being able to work with the City and its officials to collaborate and craft one of the best agreements to date with the City. Both sides should be proud of the results and the opportunity to strengthen their ties and commitments to their employees and make them a top employer,” said Haemant Sawh, IUOE Local 882 Business Manager and President.

“We have worked extremely hard to build a strong working relationship with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 882-B over the years, and this process reflects our trust and mutual respect for each other,” said Ashley Williston, City of Williams Lake's Director of Human Resources. “Both parties were able to have meaningful discussion and find solutions that were mutually agreeable.”

“The City of Williams Lake appreciates the dedication and hard work of all our employees and the value they provide to our community,” stated Gary Muraca, Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Williams Lake. “I am extremely pleased that both parties were able to come to the table and reach a fair agreement quickly. The successful collective bargaining process is a testament to the relationship the City has with the Union, and reflects employee morale and the positive work environment fostered at the City. Council has been updated throughout the process, and the success of this agreement is reflective of Council’s commitment to fostering a healthy, inclusive and respectful workplace as outlined in their Strategic Plan.”